Benjamin Fallow
2024 Eco-Hero
DR. MARY GRIFFIN-JONES AWARD
Benjamin Fallow
Age 10
West Sussex, United Kingdom
Nature Education & Art
Benji is a young environmental advocate who has devoted his life to nature conservation through a blend of art, community projects, and educational outreach. His passion for the environment paired with his artistic talents has reached a broad audience and raised significant funds for nature conservation.
Benji’s goals are to educate the public about nature, raise funds for nature charities, improve local ecosystems, and create educational content to inspire others. Through his artwork, writing, and videos, Benji has made a substantial impact. He sells prints and cards of his artwork on his Etsy shop and participates in sponsored challenges, raising over £7,000 for various environmental charities over the past three years.
One of Benji’s significant contributions includes transforming his home garden into a thriving wildlife sanctuary. The garden now hosts a variety of species, from frogs and newts to birds and insects, creating a mini-ecosystem that serves as a haven for local wildlife. His efforts extend beyond his garden as he participates in local rewilding projects and has started a community allotment from scratch, focusing on sustainable gardening practices and wildlife-friendly habitats.
Benji is also actively involved with Reserva, an organization dedicated to creating the world’s first youth-funded rainforest reserve in Ecuador. Through sponsored walks, climbs, and the sale of his artwork, he has protected four acres of cloud forest. His fundraising efforts included walking over 100 miles on the South Downs Way and a challenging rock climb at Stanage Edge in the Peak District.
In addition to his hands-on conservation work, Benji is working on a book of his nature artwork, aiming to raise awareness and funds for nature charities further. His dedication and accomplishments at such a young age are truly inspiring, showcasing the profound impact that one individual can have on the environment.
“Everyone can do something for the good of our planet,” says Benji. “Even if just a few people got into nature and started to care for it, that would be amazing to me!”
